Good morning, Champaign.

Families in Central IL have faced rising food insecurity as the Eastern Illinois Foodbank met historic demand — 250 volunteers repackaged 20,000 pounds of food for about 16,000 meals during Operation Orange at its Urbana facility on Thursday.

Prairie Fruits Farm and Creamery in Champaign announced it received a $200,000 Tourism Attractions Grant from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity on Sept.

3 — funds that will improve parking, landscaping, and build a visitor center with a retail store, classroom, and ADA-compliant restrooms. The farm will also add an educational walking path around its lake with local partners to boost agritourism in the community.

The University of Illinois Board of Trustees unanimously renamed Memorial Stadium on Thursday to Gies Memorial Stadium following a $100 million donation from alumnus Larry Gies—this move supports Illinois Athletics and honors veterans, with President Tim Killeen stating the gift will keep Fighting Illini athletics strong for years to come.

The University of Illinois Board of Trustees has approved renaming the football stadium Gies Memorial Stadium in honor of philanthropist Larry Gies and his $100 million donation that commemorates military service.

The board also set an $8.9 billion operating budget and appointed Howard Engle as treasurer—measures designed to support the university's academic and athletic programs.

Champaign’s Central and Centennial High Schools have been named among the best in the country by U.S. News & World Report — Central ranks #89 among 715 Illinois public schools and Centennial ranks #137, ranking them third and fifth in the metro area.

Rep. Carol Ammons and Sen. Paul Faraci held a town hall in Champaign-Urbana where residents discussed rising energy costs and cuts to social services, and one expert said federal budget cuts could soon harm people on Medicare and Medicaid—while officials offered tips to lower utility bills from Ameren and the Citizens Utility Board.

Champaign County warned property owners on Thursday about a scam letter circulating that urges recipients to call a number for purported funds — officials advised residents not to call or give personal information and recommended signing up for property fraud alerts.

EARTHGANG with Joel Q, Asha Omega, and Rollie

8 PM – 2 AM — The Canopy Club — Ticket prices not listed — Experience the unique sounds of Earthgang and special guests in a vibrant atmosphere.

Tri The Illini Sprint Triathlon

1-5 p.m. — Activities and Recreation Center — Registration required — Compete in a thrilling sprint triathlon featuring a pool swim, cycling, and running in Champaign.

Arboretum Fall Equinox Yoga

6-7:30 p.m. — University of Illinois Arboretum — $15/person — Celebrate the start of autumn with yoga, meditation, and reflection in a scenic setting.

PMP Certification Training Course

9 AM – 5 PM — HQ, Champaign, IL — Price varies — Gain essential project management skills with a comprehensive in-class training program.

ACES + LAS Career Fair

9:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. — Illinois Conference Center — Free entry — Explore diverse career paths and network with industry leaders at this essential career fair.

Keep With Lunar Moth Concert

7-10 p.m. — The Space — $10 cover — Experience an exciting indie music performance by Lunar Moth and guests.

TWILIGHT (2008) Movie Screening with Blood Drive

2-9:45 p.m. — Virginia Theatre — Free entry — Donate blood and enjoy a screening of the popular vampire movie 'TWILIGHT' while supporting a community cause.

Sunday Wine Down with Jadie & Doc Shredd

2-4 p.m. — Alto Vineyards Champaign — Enjoy great music while tasting fine wines — Unwind to the sounds of pop, classic rock, blues, and country hits.

Comedy Open Mic Night

8-10 p.m. — The Space — Free entry — Perfect opportunity for comedy enthusiasts to showcase their talent or enjoy a night of laughs.

Tom Grassman Band Live at Pour Bros

8-11 p.m. — Pour Bros. Craft Taproom — Free entry — Enjoy a night of live music with the Tom Grassman Band during the Friday Night Live Music series.